School uniform reuse scheme is back

Local families are once again being encouraged to make the most of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s School Uniform Reuse Scheme, which returns this summer to help ease the cost of the new school year while supporting a more sustainable future.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan is joined by representatives from the local participating community schemes, Libraries NI and Elected Members to launch the School Uniform Reuse Scheme | ANBC

placeholder image — The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan is joined by representatives from the local participating community schemes, Libraries NI and Elected Members to launch the School Uniform Reuse Scheme | ANBC

The scheme provides families with an opportunity to donate good-quality, clean school uniforms that are no longer needed and allows others to collect pre-loved items free of charge. By giving uniforms a second life, this initiative helps reduce textile waste, keeps usable uniforms out of landfill and supports households with the rising costs of back-to-school essentials.

Collection and donation points include:

Tidal Toome
Listening Ear, Rathcoole
ROC Glengormley, Glengormley Methodist Church Hall
FitMoms and Kids, Glengormley
St John's Uniform Recycling Scheme, Ballyclare
Carnmoney Church School Uniform Ministry, Newtownabbey
First Antrim Uniform Bank, Antrim
Community Relations Forum, Barron Hall, Glengormley

The council is also partnering with Libraries NI for a third year to offer dedicated P.E. kit drop-off bins at Antrim, Ballyclare, Glengormley and Rathcoole Libraries. Items accepted include shorts, t-shirts, joggers, hoodies, jackets, P.E. bags, trainers, football boots and waterproofs.

Speaking on the Scheme, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan said: "As families prepare for the new school year, our School Uniform Reuse Scheme offers a practical way to save money while supporting a more sustainable future.

"Thanks to the generosity of our residents, last year more than 3,000 quality uniform items were donated and redistributed across the Borough, helping hundreds of families. Every donation makes a real difference by supporting another family and reducing unnecessary waste. I encourage anyone with outgrown uniforms or P.E. kits in good condition to pass them on, and for families to take advantage of the fantastic range of items available through the scheme."

For more information about the School Uniform Reuse Scheme, including participating locations and opening times, visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/uniform